What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
donzella
Example
The donzella was dressed in a beautiful white gown for her wedding. [donzella: noun]
Example
She was known as the village donzella, admired by all for her beauty and grace. [donzella: adjective]
virgin
Example
She was proud to be a virgin and wanted to wait until marriage to have sex. [virgin: noun]
Example
The virgin snow covered the ground, undisturbed by footprints. [virgin: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Virgin is a more commonly used word in English than donzella, which is mainly used in Italian or Spanish contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between donzella and virgin?
Both donzella and virgin have formal connotations due to their associations with purity and innocence. However, virgin is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while donzella is more likely to be used in formal or literary contexts.
